Criticism of Social Contract Theory on philosophical basis:
The criticism of the Social Contract Theory can be done on philosophical basis in the following way:
1. Membership of the state not optional:
According to this theory, the state has been defined as such an organization whose membership is optional; but in fact, the membership of the state is not optional, instead it is mandatory. In this context, this principle is defective.
2. State not an artificial institution:
According to this theory, the state is the creation of people, whereas the state is a natural institution based on human behaviour. The state is the result of natural social tendencies of the people.
3. Encouragement to rebellion and anarchy:
This principle, while describing the state as a result of personal contracts, incites people for rebellion and anarchy.
4. Implementation of natural rights not possible:
For the implementation of rights, existence of power is a must. It is not possible to implement natural rights without use of coercive force.